Key Attributes of Great Paintings

What makes a great painting? Though there is no conventional answer to this question, there are reasons why some paintings are held in high regard than others. Ideally, what makes a picture great is the ability of the painter to deliver a unified artwork that is appealing to the viewer.

Of course, the ability to deliver exceptional paintings comes with practice. That said, here are some common attributes shared by all good paintings.

A Strong Focal Point

Every good painting has a focal point. Focal points can be of different attributes. Irrespective of how the artist chooses to bring out the focal point, he or she should be able to engage the viewer. The focal point also serves as the culmination of the momentum built in their work.

Right Choice of Colour

Colouration is an essential feature of any great painting. Great artists have perfected the art of using different colour combinations to make the picture vibrant, tranquil, dramatic, or stark. Ideally, the true mark of quality in painting lies in the proper use of colours.

Changes in Directions

Most great paintings have clear brushstrokes. These strokes shed light on how the mural was painted. They are also used to grab the viewers’ attention, without them even noticing.